‘Shark Tank’ debate: Are we going down a dark, unnecessary path?
When a show becomes a success, it is interesting at times to see just what the masterminds behind the whole thing manage to do with it. If you remember back to the first two seasons of “Shark Tank,” then you will know that this was a program that Jimmy Kimmel made fun of at ABC’s upfront presentation for being on the air. However, it had that sort of underdog spirit and devoted fan following behind it, and it now is at the point where it is the highest-rated program on the Friday-night schedule.
But have all the changes to the series been good? Not always, since the producers of the show are now doing something that Kevin O’Leary has often criticized inventors for: getting too greedy. Really, there are three bad habits that this show is sinking into at the moment, and they need to put a stop to it now before they become problems that may eventually damage an infectious and inspiring show.
1. Ridiculous product placement – Yes, we understand that TV is a business first and foremost, and these sorts of in-show ads are sometimes necessary for extra revenue. However, “Shark Tank” cannot be an expensive show to make, since really all you are doing are paying the crew along with the sharks. Plus, it’s almost an insult to Daymond John watching him play with a T-Mobile phone on camera and act like it is something he does on a regular basis. When you consider that this show is basically a giant advertisement for new businesses, it seems counter-intuitive to spotlight a company that is already doing rather well for themselves.
Celebrities – When you have one D or C-lister come in a season, it’s a coincidence and it’s something fun to see. However, it is becoming almost a weekly occurrence now that someone like Seth MacFarlane or Bruce Vilanch enters the tank, and it takes away from the product itself. These are just largely unnecessary, we hardly think someone is going to watch this show to see their favorite “star” peddling a product, especially when, as MacFarlane himself stated, he does not even use the product he was there to “endorse”. The only real exception to all of this so far in season 4 is Brandon Jacobs, who was obviously a paid endorser for the PRO-NRG product and brought more than just a face to the tank.
Sad stories – When you see a business succeed on this show, it’s an inspiration in itself. Having someone come on and cry just feels desperate and a forced attempt by producers to make us feel for someone. It’s understandable that people are suffering right now; however, millions of people are struggling. We much prefer seeing businesses who take the emotion our of their pitches, since it creates for so much better drama for the sharks themselves. Lori Greiner going back in on a product earlier this season after the person making the pitch broke down has to be the lowlight of the season, and it is just one of a few reasons why we are more on Team Barbara Corcoran.
Do you think that “Shark Tank” is effectively shooting themselves in the foot by going away from what made them a hit to begin with?